Whether she's throwing an all-out destination wedding or an intimate backyard affair, the bride knows being in a wedding can be expensive. She does not expect you to shower her with expensive gifts too. You love your friend and want her to have everything she ever dreamed during this time in her life. But every budget has limits.

As the wedding costs add up, the party invitations can add up, too. So how many gifts is a bridesmaid supposed to buy?

Bridal Showers
When it comes to bridal showers, bridesmaids are typically invited to them all. That does not mean you have to travel for each one. But if you do attend, bring a gift. While you aren't expected to spend a lot, it's potentially awkward to show up to a party empty-handed, especially if the bride plans to open gifts in front of the guests.

Brides include an array of prices on their registries. If you know you have three showers to attend, set a budget—say $100—and find three gifts within that range. Some stores offer free gift-wrapping, so your present can look like a million bucks, no matter what you spend.

Lingerie Shower
As part of the bachelorette celebration, bridesmaids often band together to host a lingerie shower. This will be the most exclusive invite list, so each bridesmaid should bring a silky, lacy, or flirty selection. Feel free to go a little crazy with this one! A lingerie shower is the inner circle's chance to spoil the bride in a way only her best friends can.

Wedding
At a minimum, a bridesmaid must send a wedding gift. If you've already spent the equivalent of a rent check and a car payment, consider picking something small and thoughtful from the wedding registry. The idea is the couple will have a keepsake to forever think of you from their special day.

Not sure how much to spend? One rule of thumb is to estimate the bride's cost per guest, then budget that for your gift. If you're bringing a date, budget that for each of you. Looking for more guidance? Tendr created this handy state-by-state guide to give you an idea of how much other people are giving in your area.

The bride asked you to be in her wedding because it's most important to have you standing by her side on her big day. Remember, to her, your friendship is the best gift of all.

Style Me Pretty Contributor - Madeline Littrell is a Dallas-based writer and PR strategist. Born and raised in Tennessee, she loves big hair, country music, and chicken fingers.